SMS group to Deploy Blast Furnace Decarbonization Technology for MMK

SMS group, a Metal-Expo regular exhibitor, will improve the efficiency of Magnitogorsk Iron & Steel Works (MMK), a Metal-Expo regular exhibitor, processes with the use of ‘syngas’, a combination of hydrogen and carbon monoxide which replaces a portion of the solid carbon fuels – setting the stage for greater decarbonization potential in the future. 

“We are excited to be able to work further with MMK to develop and deploy these innovative solutions”, said André Schneider, CEO of SMS group Region CIS. “With our support, our customer will be able to quickly achieve substantial CO2 emission reductions with a relatively limited investment”.

Blast Furnace 11 was ordered in June 2021 and is to be a completely new project. It will use enhanced techniques, developed by SMS group company Paul Wurth. It will achieve very high standards of environmental performance. These new technologies can also be used in existing Blast Furnaces, thus enabling CO2 emissions to be reduced at existing sites around the world.

“Part of our contribution to these projects is the production technology and workflow for the use of syngas – which can be injected into the blast furnace shaft”, said Dr. Thomas Hansmann, Head of Metallurgy for SMS group and CTO for Paul Wurth. “The degree of emissions reduction possible from this technique is potentially substantial. The system is flexible, allowing for a general increase in productivity”.

SMS group has 150 years of experience in steel technology and equipment, supporting clients, such as MKK, around the world. Our regional hubs and our expanded portfolio of products and services means we can provide tailored help to our local customers. SMS group provides a range of assistance, including the construction, maintenance and servicing of whole Blast Furnaces through its group company Paul Wurth, and Direct Reduction Furnaces under license from Midrex®. SMS group technology solutions support the global steel sector’s transformation towards its low-carbon, green steel future.

SMS group is renowned worldwide for its future-oriented technologies and outstanding service for the metals industry. The company applies its 150 years of experience and its digital know-how to provide the industry continuously with innovative products and processes – even beyond its core business – and generates worldwide sales of more than 2.7 billion euros. SMS is the right partner for challenging projects, and supports its customers throughout the lifecycle of their plants, enabling profitable and resource-efficient value creation chains. Paving the way for a carbon-neutral and sustainable metals industry is the company’s stated goal. As a global player with German roots, SMS takes responsibility for its about 14,000 employees.